This Relaxing Trail System In Idaho Is The Perfect Urban Escape
Idaho truly is a magical spot for hikers of every level and age group. With nearly 5 million acres of wilderness, our state is beyond perfect for exploring, no matter your recreation or adventuring style. But for those who want a quick escape into nature without an extended road trip or investing in expensive gear, urban hiking is the perfect option! Fortunately, Idaho’s capital city is particularly blessed to be nestled in a picturesque valley beneath the foothills, which are gentle enough to be hiked and explored by nearly everyone.
Boise’s Ridge to Rivers Trail System is a uniquely interconnected network of roads and trails that course through Boise’s landmark hills. With over 190 miles of trails, many of which are specific to particular user types and pet-friendly, this natural and beautiful escape just outside the city is worth exploring over and over, and simply full of easy hikes that also provide breathtaking views and scenic vistas.
Boise’s unique Ridge to Rivers urban trail system was established in 1992.
A multi-agency partnership ensures the trails, the landscape through which they run, and the wildlife that makes the foothills their habitat stay safe, while focused trails for biking, running, or dog-walking keep the individual paths more navigable.
Pictured: Owls Roost Trail
The Boise Foothills area used to be a military training zone, but today is explored by thousands every day.
It’s an unexpected ecosystem that ties directly into the Boise River Valley. Many species of flora and fauna here are found nowhere else in Idaho.
From educational pedestrian-only trails and challenging bike trails to paths simply made for exploring with man’s best friend, each area is maintained with a particular user in mind.
Idaho is special in that our trees aren’t the only thing that change colors come fall. Many of our state’s native shrubs provide an extra splash of color that makes a fall journey through the system incredibly beautiful!
In many ways, the Ridge to Rivers Trail System is a hidden gem.
While well-loved by Boise locals, many national travel sites have overlooked the beauty of this area simply because to those unfamiliar or uninitiated into Idaho culture, the desert landscape isn’t very appealing…
The magnificent beauty of Boise’s Ridge to Rivers Trail System is that it never fails to surprise, relax, and inspire those who explore it. Every season on the trails offers something different to see and experience — and it’s right in the heart of downtown. Yet, despite its urban locale, these trails through the foothills will make you feel a million miles away. No other state has anything like it!
For maps of each of the trails mentioned above (and dozens more), check out the City of Boise’sRidge to Rivers website.
For trail conditions as the seasons continue to change, check out the official page here.
Howdy. I've been hiking most of my life. I spent my young boyhood hiking up and down the mountains in Hell's Canyon, bordering Oregon & Idaho with my father. He taught me important wilderness skills that I have passed on to my own sons. Since growing up in Idaho and hiking all over the Sawtooth and Selway wilderness areas, I have since hiked in the Andes and several trips diving and hiking in Antarctica, including the "Footsteps of Shackleton" expedition. I was also active in National Ski Patrol for 15 years, including Avalanche control and rescue. Since then I have become a Doctor of Trauma & Orthopaedics at Oxford England with an interest in Expedition Medicine.
My son, Jeremy is now the main hiker in the family with weekend hikes throughout the summer and will share his adventures.
While popular, the 190 miles of meandering paths ensure that everyone has their own space.
It’s an unexpected ecosystem that ties directly into the Boise River Valley. Many species of flora and fauna here are found nowhere else in Idaho.
Idaho is special in that our trees aren’t the only thing that change colors come fall. Many of our state’s native shrubs provide an extra splash of color that makes a fall journey through the system incredibly beautiful!
While well-loved by Boise locals, many national travel sites have overlooked the beauty of this area simply because to those unfamiliar or uninitiated into Idaho culture, the desert landscape isn’t very appealing…
How about you?
